TFMR Awareness Day: My Ectopic Pregnancy Story and Why Reproductive Healthcare Access Matters
Today, May 4, is Termination for Medical Reasons Awareness Day.
Also known as:
Termination For Maternal/Birthing Person’s Health Reasons OR Termination For Maternal/Birthing Person’s Mental Health Reasons
Our Story: In December 2022, my husband and I learned we were pregnant.
This was a planned and wanted pregnancy.
We were thrilled. We told our families right away. I had names picked out.
Then, at our first ultrasound appointment, there was no sign of an embryo.
I stared at the screen of my empty uterus in complete shock. We soon learned it was an ectopic pregnancy. We were devastated.
I needed two rounds of chemotherapy to stop the cell growth. While I still grieve this loss, I am grateful I had access to the care that saved my life.
What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants outside the uterus. It is not a viable pregnancy - a baby cannot result. If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can cause a Fallopian tube to rupture, severe internal bleeding, and death.
Why Reproductive Healthcare Access Is a Life-or-Death Issue
Since my experience, access to reproductive and abortion healthcare has come under attack across the country. There is a dangerous lack of understanding about why people end pregnancies. Sometimes, like in my case, it is medically necessary for survival.
Other equally valid reasons people end pregnancies include:
• Not feeling ready or able to parent
• Being in an abusive relationship
• Surviving sexual assault
• Personal reasons that belong to no one else
These laws will not stop abortions. They will stop safe abortions.
This debate is not truly about being “pro-life.” If it were, we’d see greater concern for children already living in poverty or abuse. This is about power and control. Access to healthcare - including abortion - is a human right.
You Are Not Alone
If any of this resonates with you, please reach out:
• 📞 Postpartum Support International HelpLine: Call or text 800-944-4773 (no diagnosis needed)
• 📱 Connect by PSI App — free download
• 📞 National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call or text 1-833-852-6262
• 🆘 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
• 🌐 postpartum.net — free online support groups and resources
